Racing: Trick Cyclist on path to Royal Ascot

Monday 19 May 2003 23:00 BST

Click to followThe Independent Online

Trick Cyclist is to become the first Royal Ascot runner for the rookie trainer Andrew Balding. The Mind Games colt, a winner at Bath yesterday, is owned by a partnership which includes the Radio 5 racing correspondent Cornelius Lysaght and Balding's sister, the BBC racing presenter Clare. His Ascot target, following yesterday's narrow victory over Fortunately, is the Windsor Castle Stakes.

Balding has made a solid start since taking over the training licence at Kingsclere from his now retired father, Ian. He said: "As a May foal this win is a real bonus, but he has a classic two-year-old pedigree and is improving with every run. He's in all the sales races, but I think we'll give the owners a day out by running him at Ascot."

Martin Dwyer, successful on Trick Cyclist, completed a double on the well-backed Day Fort for Marcus Tregoning. The colt's market rival, Cryptogam, pulled hard for Richard Hughes and quickly faded.

A tilt at the Stewards' Cup is on the cards for Cressex Katie after her success under Pat Eddery in the sprint handicap. In completing a hat-trick for the trainer John Cullinan the filly swooped to collar Blackheath. "She's a screwball at home," Cullinan said, "and was so crazy it was almost impossible to train her. When she works she has to be sent on her own.

"I am not sure if Goodwood will suit her but I would like to run there and I'll also look at the Ayr Gold Cup."